Asbestos Abatement and Removal Education and Training

Follow government regulations to ensure proper asbestos remediation training

Asbestos is a big problem for American businesses, and asbestos removal can cost companies millions. Of course, the human toll of asbestos is well-known, as is a leading cause of lung diseases such as mesothelioma. Because the dangers inherent in asbestos, asbestos remediation contractors must have proper training to inspect, repair and remove asbestos as required by federal regulations.

The government allows only state-approved organizations to conduct asbestos abatement and removal education and training. The asbestos abatement companies must have certification from their respective states. Contractors must adhere to the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act of 1986 (AHERA), which established five areas of training disciplines for asbestos abatement companies. An additional requirement later bumps up the training required in order to remediate asbestos in our nation's school buildings.

To explore the training needed for asbestos abatement, consider the following steps:

1. Look at the government requirements for training and education of asbestos remediation companies.

2. Contact a company approved by the state and federal governments to conduct training in asbestos removal.

3. Make sure your workforce receives the annual refresher training that your state requires.

Learn about asbestos abatement and removal from government sources

A person does not necessarily need a degree beyond high school to perform the hazardous work of removing asbestos from a building. However, workers must complete at least 40 hours of in-house training approved by the Occupational Safety and Health Association, covering such areas as hazards and precautions, before becoming eligible for licensing in their state.
Bureau of Labor Statistics website explains the training required to become an asbestos abatement worker. The Environmental Protection Agency gives links to state-approved training courses. Federal Occupational Health offers training for asbestos abatement and removal companies.

Contact a state-licensed asbestos abatement company to fulfill training requirements

Whether you are starting an asbestos removal services company or need the services of one, you will have to ensure that the workers have proper training and certification in your state. Luckily, there are resources in each state to assist with the training for your asbestos removal.

Stay in compliance with periodic retraining for asbestos removal

Asbestos abatement contractors must keep up to speed with regulations and training even after they have certification from their state. Contractors must complete an annual training to review proper methods and stay on top of new developments.
Community College of Rhode Island offers annual review classes for asbestos abatement contractors. Conversion Technology is an Atlanta, Ga. company that conducts trainings and assists in helping companies with environmental, safety and health training.

• Realize that OSHA fines for ignoring an asbestos problem or not properly training employees in asbestos abatement can devastate a business. Keep that in mind when you're planning to get rid of asbestos.

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